They say I came from Africa.
I suppose that may be true.
But the type I am was mostly played
In a place where grass is blue.
Of wood and pearl, skin and steel,
You could say I am high strung.
My neck looks like a ladder,
With brass on every rung.

What am I?

Hint

Answer

A 5-string banjo.

A 4-string "banjar" was brought to the US by African slaves in the 18th century. An individual named Joel Walter Sweeny of Appomattox Court House, VA, is credited with inventing the 5-string banjo when he adapted the banjar by adding a 5th string. The 5-string banjo was most popularized by its use in Bluegrass Music. Brass is used on the frets of the Banjo neck.Hide